Pilot program will support up to 15 New Hanover County nonprofits in building long-term sustainability
WILMINGTON, N.C. At its semiannual Public Meeting and Board Listening Session on June 3, 2026, The Endowment announced a new initiative aimed at helping local nonprofits expand access to funding opportunities and strengthen their long-term organizational capacity.
“When we met in December [of 2025], we committed to expanding our capacity-building portfolio to strengthen local nonprofits,” said Shannon Winslow, Chair of the Endowment Board. “These organizations do so much with limited resources, and fundraising has become increasingly challenging. Today, we’re pleased to announce a new investment to help them secure critical funding.”
“This partnership with Innovative Funding Partners will help organizations pursue diverse funding opportunities and develop more competitive applications,” added Sophie Dagenais, President and CEO of The Endowment. “Through technical assistance, skill building, and direct support, we aim to strengthen the long-term sustainability of organizations serving New Hanover County.”
Over the past year, The Endowment has invested in capacity-building efforts through grant funding, learning opportunities, and pilot programs designed to strengthen organizational effectiveness. These investments have included support for data collection and evaluation, operational improvements, and access to statewide learning networks through memberships with the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits.
“Building on this continued strategy, The Endowment has partnered with Innovative Funding Partners to launch a 12-month pilot initiative supporting up to 15 New Hanover County nonprofit organizations. Through this program, participating organizations will receive individualized support from experienced fundraising consultants to identify and pursue funding opportunities, strengthen grant applications, and develop strategies to compete more effectively for federal, state, local, and philanthropic funding,” said Mary Vail Ware, Director of Social and Health Equity and Community Development.
Innovative Funding Partners (IFP) is a nationally recognized consulting firm that supports nonprofit organizations, governments, and small businesses in achieving sustainable impact through strategic funding, organizational planning, evaluation, and capacity-building services. The firm is widely recognized for its strong track record in securing grant funding and provides comprehensive support in grant writing, grants management, data-informed decision-making, training, and coaching.
The initiative will help organizations identify funding opportunities locally, regionally, and nationally, , develop stronger grant applications, and collaborate more effectively across the local nonprofit sector. Participants will gain practical experience in identifying funding pathways, crafting proposals, and navigating public and private funding processes, building capacity that lasts beyond the program itself.
Additional details about the program and the application process will be announced in the coming weeks.
About The Endowment
The Endowment’s mission is to improve the health, education, safety, and economic opportunity of every person in New Hanover County.
For more about The Endowment and to stay informed about upcoming grant opportunities, visit www.theendowment.org.
###